exercise authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exercise authority" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase to indicate a situation in which someone is using their power in a particular situation. For example, you could say: "The manager exercised their authority to forbid employees from leaving early."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Our study therefore aims to: describe the extent to which horizontal managers exercise authority over HIV M&E coordination, determine factors associated with exercised authority, and explore vertical managers' roles in HIV M&E coordination.

Global Health Action

He needs to exercise authority.

The New York Times

"I.N.S. cannot exercise authority that Congress has not given it".

The New York Times

It would exercise authority over any new lines of business.

The New York Times

Evangelicals believe that women cannot exercise authority over men.

The Guardian - Opinion

Business firms create rules to regulate and, thereby, exercise authority over employees.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For example, they exercise authority over municipal property and policing, and they can impose regional taxes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When we exercise authority over individuals, a politician cannot interfere with the administration process.

The Guardian

Childeric was the last Merovingian to attempt to exercise authority, but he lacked political ability.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"These older children look for other avenues where they can again exercise authority".

The New York Times

Instead, we should offer test prep strategies that allow students to exercise authority over the exam.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the actions of leaders or governing bodies, use "exercise authority" to convey the active application of their power and responsibility. This emphasizes their role in making decisions and enforcing rules.

Common error

Avoid using "exercise authority" when the action implies excessive or oppressive control. "Authoritarianism" suggests abuse of power, while "exercise authority" should denote legitimate and responsible use of power.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exercise authority" functions as a verb phrase where "exercise" acts as a verb meaning to use or apply, and "authority" serves as a noun representing power or control. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable, with numerous examples showcasing its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

18%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exercise authority" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes the act of using power or control. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. It is commonly found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific texts, indicating a formal to neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the legitimate and responsible use of power, distinguishing it from authoritarianism. Alternatives such as "wield power" or "exert control" can provide nuanced variations. Understanding the context and connotations will help you use "exercise authority" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wield power

This alternative directly replaces "exercise authority" with a synonym for power, emphasizing the act of using power.

exert control

This alternative uses "exert" which highlights the effort involved in maintaining authority, and replaces "authority" with "control".

take command

This phrase shifts the focus to initiating control, implying a proactive assumption of authority.

assert influence

This emphasizes the impact of authority, suggesting the power to affect outcomes or decisions.

enforce regulations

This focuses on the practical application of authority through the implementation of rules and laws.

maintain dominance

This conveys a sustained state of control, highlighting the ongoing effort to keep authority.

preside over

This suggests a formal role of authority, often in an official or ceremonial capacity.

hold sway

This implies a persuasive or influential form of authority, where power is exerted through influence.

call the shots

An idiomatic expression that describes someone who makes the important decisions and gives orders.

have jurisdiction

This specifies a legal or territorial scope of authority, indicating the defined limits of power.

FAQs

How can I use "exercise authority" in a sentence?

You can use "exercise authority" to describe someone using their power or control in a specific situation. For instance, "The manager had to exercise authority to resolve the conflict among employees."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "exercise authority"?

Alternatives include "wield power", "exert control", or "take command", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "exercise authority" in informal writing?

While "exercise authority" is suitable for formal contexts, consider using simpler phrases like "take charge" or "be in control" for informal writing to maintain a casual tone.

What's the difference between "exercise authority" and "delegate authority"?

"Exercise authority" means to directly use one's power, while "delegate authority" means to entrust or assign some of that power to someone else. You might "delegate authority" so that others can "exercise authority" within a specific scope.